What are the definitions of “press upon”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Pressure someone to accept something offered.
The invitations were PRESSED UPON us and it was hard to say no.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “press upon”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb press upon is to pressure someone to accept something offered. It is often used when someone is trying to convince another person to agree to something or accept a gift or invitation.
What are the different verb forms of “press upon”?
| Root Verb | press upon |
| Third Person Singular Present | presses upon |
| Present Participle | pressing upon |
| Simple Past | pressed upon |
| Past Participle | pressed upon |
Example
She pressed upon him the importance of attending the meeting.
Example
He presses upon her the need to accept the job offer.
Example
They are pressing upon us the urgency of the situation.
Example
Yesterday, she pressed upon him the need to make a decision.
Example
The issue has been pressed upon them multiple times.
What kind of phrasal verb is “press upon”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“press upon” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She pressed upon him the importance of attending the meeting.
Example
He pressed the need for action upon her.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“press upon” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She pressed upon him the importance of attending the meeting.
Example
He pressed the need for action upon her.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “press upon”?
Good things to know
Does “press upon” have an informal or formal tone?
Press upon is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate for use in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings such as business meetings or academic discussions.
